Summary about Disease
Cryptorchidism, also known as undescended testicles, is a condition where one or both testicles fail to descend from the abdomen into the scrotum during fetal development. It is a common condition in newborn males, particularly premature infants. In many cases, the testicle will descend on its own within the first six months of life. If it doesn't, medical intervention may be necessary to prevent complications like infertility and increased risk of testicular cancer later in life.
Symptoms
The main symptom is the absence of one or both testicles in the scrotum. In some cases, the testicle may be palpable in the groin area. Sometimes, neither testicle can be felt.
Causes
The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors influencing testicular descent during pregnancy. Risk factors include prematurity, low birth weight, family history of cryptorchidism, and maternal health conditions.
Medicine Used
Hormone therapy (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin - hCG or Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone - LHRH) was sometimes used in the past to try and stimulate testicular descent, but it is generally not recommended now due to low success rates and potential side effects. The primary treatment is surgical (orchiopexy).
Is Communicable
No, cryptorchidism is not communicable or contagious. It is a developmental condition.
Precautions
There are no real precautions to prevent cryptorchidism, as the cause is complex and largely related to prenatal development. However, prenatal care and avoiding known teratogens during pregnancy may reduce the risk of various developmental issues.
How long does an outbreak last?
Cryptorchidism is not an outbreak. It is a congenital condition. It is present at birth or shortly thereafter.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination by a pediatrician or urologist. If the testicle is not palpable, imaging studies like ultrasound, MRI, or laparoscopy may be used to locate the testicle.
Timeline of Symptoms
Prenatal: Failure of testicular descent during fetal development.
Newborn: Absence of one or both testicles in the scrotum at birth.
First 6 months: Possible spontaneous descent.
Beyond 6 months: Testicle unlikely to descend spontaneously.
Important Considerations
Early diagnosis and treatment (ideally between 6-12 months of age) are crucial to maximize fertility potential and minimize the risk of complications such as infertility, testicular cancer, testicular torsion, and inguinal hernia. Regular self-exams of the testicles should be performed after puberty, even if cryptorchidism was corrected. Long-term follow-up with a urologist may be recommended.